The president of France, Emmanuel Macron, said in a statement, “From simple food lovers to the most discerning gourmets, in the territories of France as in the most distant countries, Paul Bocuse was the epitome of French cuisine. His name alone summed up French gastronomy in its generosity, its respect for tradition but also its inventiveness.”

He added, “Today French gastronomy is losing a mythical figure that will have profoundly transformed it. The chefs cry in their kitchens, at the Elysee and everywhere in France. But they will continue his work.”

Anthony Bourdain tweeted his condolences, writing, “Paul Bocuse. A hero to me from my earliest days as a cook. A great, great chef who was very kind to me. To have spent time with him was an honor and a dream come true. Rest In Peace.”

Paul Bocuse. A hero to me from my earliest days as a cook. A great, great chef who was very kind to me. To have spent time with him was an honor and a dream come true . Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/RxDCZwHhHq